“We want a continent of good governance, democracy, respect of human rights, gender equality, justice and the rule of law”– Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, at the Opening Ceremony of the 9th African Economic Conference in Addis Ababa

“Skills, technology, knowledge and innovation are critical to all areas of African transformation: from the modernization of agriculture, to having resilient and effective public health systems in order to fight disease, as we see with Ebola.

“These issues are critical to African Union Agenda 2063, the 50-year vision for the Africa we want. We advocate for a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development; an integrated continent, politically united and based on the ideal Pan-Africanism; a continent of good governance, democracy, respect of human rights, gender equality, justice and the rule of law; and a peaceful and secured Africa.

“Truly, the skills revolution we advocate for is one such critical area in order:

“To strengthen higher education sector, especially universities; increase the number of children – boys and girls in quality secondary education and ensure that science, math and technology as well as vocational and technical education are critical part of the curricula.

“Build national, regional and continental infrastructure and systems for innovation and technology.

“Engage with private sector on the continent, to ensure close cooperation on identifying and addressing the skills gaps, and putting in place labour market institutions that allow for on-the-job training.”